As the 2024 election approaches in just a few days, we invite you to hear what leading scholars, activists, and racial justice practitioners have to say about some of today’s most urgent social and political issues. Produced by Hendel Leiva, Race Forward’s Manager of Podcast and Audio Initiatives, No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Limited Podcast Series delivers timely insights and strategies for moving forward in an era defined by political uncertainty. For academics, policy experts, and racial justice practitioners, this podcast is a crucial tool for navigating the challenges—and opportunities—that lie ahead.

Recorded at the Othering and Belonging Conference in Oakland, California, the podcast features voices of those deeply engaged in the fight for equity and justice. Sharing their  perspectives, each episode sheds light on how we can sustain and grow our progress on racial, social, and economic justice, regardless of Tuesday’s outcome. Below, we offer an in-depth look at key episodes in the series that underscore the urgency and relevance of our work.

john a. powell – Director of the Othering and Belonging Institute, john a. powell, explores the societal need for “belonging without othering.” He discusses how, despite its essential role in society, the concept of belonging is often weaponized to marginalize others, exacerbating social divides. This episode highlights the critical importance of fostering inclusion without creating exclusive identities, drawing on lessons from history’s pivotal crises. .

Favianna Rodriguez – Cultural strategist and activist Favianna Rodriguez, President of the Center for Cultural Power, discusses how the arts can act as a catalyst for systemic change. Favianna details her work integrating cultural activism into political narratives and recounts the influence of projects like “Migration is Beautiful”, her butterfly artwork that became a symbol of immigrant resilience during the Trump administration. Favianna’s insights speak directly to racial justice practitioners and policy advocates on how the arts can shift public perception and deepen support for inclusive policy changes.

Nwamaka Agbo – Nwamaka Agbo, CEO of the Kataly Foundation, discusses restorative economics and its implications for creating more equitable systems. She reflects on the polarized political climate and stresses the importance of “rejecting false harmony,” advocating instead for frameworks that prioritize community-driven governance and resource distribution. Her Restorative Economies framework lays a foundation for racial justice practitioners and policy experts committed to community-led approaches that address racial and economic disparities through sustainable, relational strategies.

Maurice “Moe” Mitchell – Maurice Mitchell, National Director of the Working Families Party, passionately talks about building a multiracial, working-class movement that challenges America’s bipartisan system. Mitchell shares how his own experiences with systemic inequities shaped his commitment to justice and advocacy for a “third force” in U.S. politics. He emphasizes the need for structural—not merely symbolic—change to address racial and economic injustices.

Michelle “Mush” Lee – Michelle Lee, Executive Director of Youth Speaks, centers on the role of storytelling and cultural strategy in shaping today’s social landscape. Lee reflects on the resilience required to navigate today’s polarized climate and the role of young people in redefining democracy and activism. For racial justice practitioners, this episode offers valuable insights on fostering cross-generational and cross-cultural engagement that builds lasting resilience and civic engagement.

Bonus Episode: In a special bonus episode, the Othering and Belonging Institute’s john a. powell and Stephen Menendian discuss their co-authored book, Belonging Without Othering, offering insights into combating forms of othering such as racism, sexism, and xenophobia. Their collaborative dialogue offers frameworks for practitioners and policymakers to foster belonging in today’s complex social landscape. 

As Election Day draws near and the uncertainties of our future remain, No Matter What Happens is a critical resource for those invested in the ongoing fight for racial, economic, and cultural justice. We encourage you to listen, reflect, and integrate the strategies shared in these episodes to shape a future grounded in equity, resilience, and justice.

In solidarity,  

Race Forward